Tacky Sweater 5K

Tacky Sweater 5K is a holiday-themed run and walk in Norfolk, Virginia, on December 5, 2026, with the 5K (3.1 miles) starting at 9:00 AM. The course begins and ends at Smartmouth Brewing and takes in the Chelsea and West Ghent neighborhoods, the Mid-Town Tunnel area and Plum Point Park along the Elizabeth River Trail. Every participant gets a custom medal.

This is an urban road and trail-path 5K you can race or simply enjoy in costume, and the post-race party back at the brewery adds food, entertainment, awards, giveaways and a tacky sweater contest. The event supports the EVMS melanoma awareness campaign and raises funds for the EVMS dermatology department and its student group. If you want a fast time, three or four easy runs a week with one session of 400- or 800-meter repeats over six weeks will sharpen you nicely for the distance.